In a major reform aimed at improving the quality of dental education..
In a major reform aimed at improving the quality of dental education and aligning it with global standards, the Government of India has constituted the National Dental Commission (NDC) along with three autonomous boards, replacing the Dental Council of India (DCI). The Notifications in this regard were issued on 19 March 2026, and the NDC framework comes into effect from the same date.
This historic reform marks a decisive shift towards a regulatory framework that is transparent, quality-driven, and accountable; replacing the earlier elected structure.
The Commission will introduce essential and long-overdue regulatory reforms in dental education, and enhance access to affordable oral healthcare across the country. Distinguished professionals have been appointed to lead the Commission and its boards.
To support the functioning of the Commission, three autonomous bodies have been constituted:
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Dental Education Board – to oversee dental education
Dental Assessment and Rating Board – to regulate accreditation and institutional assessment
Ethics and Dental Registration Board – to govern professional conduct and registration of dentists
Appointments
The following appointments to the National Dental Commission and its autonomous boards have been approved:
National Dental Commission
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Dental Education Board
Dental Assessment and Rating Board
Ethics and Dental Registration Board
With the coming into force of the NDC Act from 19th March, 2026, the Dentists Act, 1948 stands repealed, and the Dental Council of India is dissolved with effect from the same date.